UK Raises Skilled Worker Visa Threshold to Degree Level From 22 July

The explanatory memorandum notes that the threshold had been lowered from RQF 6 to RQF 3 in 2020 and that the reversal removes around 180 occupations from eligibility. Salary thresholds across the sponsored work routes are also updated using the 2024 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings.

What changes for employers

Occupations at RQF levels 3 to 5 remain sponsorable only if they appear on the Immigration Salary List or on a new interim Temporary Shortage List linked to the Modern Industrial Strategy. Entries on both lists are due to end at the close of 2026, except for adult social care, and workers sponsored in these lower-skilled roles may not bring dependants, subject to limited exceptions.

Entry clearance applications for care workers and senior care workers are closed. Applicants already in the UK may still switch into these roles until 22 July 2028, provided they have worked for the sponsor for at least three months before the certificate of sponsorship is assigned.

Transitional protection

Workers already holding a Skilled Worker visa before 22 July 2025 are exempt from the higher skill threshold. They can extend their permission, change employer and take supplementary work in occupations below RQF 6. The memorandum says these arrangements are not indefinite and will be kept under review. There are no transitional arrangements for the updated salary levels.

What happens next

The Home Office has said that the Migration Advisory Committee will review the Temporary Shortage List, and that further changes, including a higher Immigration Skills Charge and stronger English language requirements, will follow later in the year. Sponsors should review planned recruitment against the new occupation tables before assigning certificates of sponsorship.

Sources

• GOV.UK: Statement of changes to the Immigration Rules HC 997, 1 July 2025
• GOV.UK: Explanatory memorandum to HC 997
• GOV.UK: Major immigration reforms delivered to restore order and control